Empowering Portrait by Lunar Studio
Christine
Can you tell me what led to your diagnosis and what was the beginning of your journey like?
I found a lump on my left breast in 2016 and my oncologist confirmed the lump. A biopsy was ordered and it was confirmed it was breast cancer. I decided to have bilateral mastectomy. After the surgery my oncologist decided to have a PET scan done to make sure that the cancer was removed. The news was devastating all the cancer was removed from the breast but it already did its damage and the cancer had moved to my bones. I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. My emotions were all over the place during this time. I ended up having another surgery a hysterectomy to help stop the cancer from spreading even further. I also have been on cancer medication for almost 10 years now.
What do you wish you knew before starting your treatment?
I wish that the age for having your first mammo screening should be changed to 30 rather than 40. I had my first order to have one done at age 40, but it was too late.
What was your biggest self-discovery or revelation after you were diagnosed?
Don’t put things off. You are never promised tomorrow.
What advice would you give on how to best support a loved one going through breast cancer?
Listen to them and don’t compare your issues with breast cancer or any cancer patients going through.
Is there anything else you would like for women undergoing breast cancer to know?
Stay strong and keep fighting. Don’t let Breast cancer define who you are!
Nomination Section
Once per month, we select one of your nominations for a complimentary Empowering Portrait.
This project aims to capture their strength and to let other women facing the same journey
know they are not alone.